Ground Ash

Ground ash is a perennial herb sometimes called angelica, archangel and masterwort. It is a member of the parsley family and grows in fields and damp locations. Plants are believed to have originated in Syria.

Stems, leafstalks, seeds and roots are all used. The oil in the seeds is often distilled and used for food flavoring, medicines, and the flavoring behind the liquor "Galliano". The laps chew the roots as a tobacco substitute.

Plants are five to six (5 to 6) feet tall and resemble wild carrot or Queen Anne's Lace. The root is purplish. Plants thrive in a moderately cool location, with partial shade. Plants are propagated from seeds or old root division and spaced eighteen (18) inches between plants in three (3) foot rows.